pathological self-absorption, first identified as a mental disorder by Havelock Ellis in 1898. Narcissism is characterized by an inflated self-image and addiction to fantasy, by an unusual coolness and composure shaken only when the narcissistic confidence is threatened, and by the tendency to take others for granted or to exploit them. The disorder is named for the mythological Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection. According to Sigmund Freud, narcissism is a normal stage in children’s development, but it is considered a disorder when it occurs after puberty. Definition and assessment Narcissism in its extreme forms is considered a personality disorder. The diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder is usually determined through clinical evaluation of the person. Narcissistic personality disorder was defined by the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (2013) in terms of significant impairments in personality functioning—such as...